Advancements in the field of medicine have allowed doctors to offer their patients with a myriad of ways to address intense pain. One such way is through the use of narcotic pain relievers that have been tested and approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Through prescription medication, patients suffering with chronic pain due to spinal cord injuries, nervous system disorders, cancer, and other medical conditions can manage their often debilitating symptoms. These pain medications also play an important role in allowing doctors to perform life-changing surgical procedures. Without prescription pain relievers, there would be no way to manage post-operative pain.

Despite these advantages, there are still many reasons why the use of these prescription pain relievers remains regulated by law. As noted by the website of the Law Offices of Richard A. Portale, P.C., the continued use of prescription medication has led to many cases of abuse, overdose, and criminal charges. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have found that there are about 46 people who die from prescription drug overdose every day in America. While these medications prove to be extremely effective, they can also be considerably addictive and habit-forming. Taking excessive doses of these narcotics can cause a person to be extremely dependent on the substance, which could then lead to addiction.

Drug abuse and overdose are serious dangers caused by prescription medication. Some of the most harmful and addictive substances associated with such outcomes included drugs like Vicodin, Oxycontin, Morphine, and Fentanyl. These drugs are also known to be a lot more dangerous if they are taken together with other narcotic substances like alcohol and cocaine.

Considering these dangers, it’s easy to see why state laws have strict implementations and policies when it comes to regulating the use and prescription of narcotic pain relievers. The illegal sale and possession of prescription drugs are considered to be serious infractions that could be met with a misdemeanor or felony charge.